Sifan Hassan, the reigning Olympic marathon champion, is known for her athletic prowess, but her coach, Tim Rowberry, recently highlighted another remarkable aspect of her character her generosity. Rowberry shared insights into their training setup, revealing that Hassan not only covers her own expenses but also funds the training costs for their group, allowing the team to operate independently.
Rowberry currently coaches Hassan and Halimah Nakaayi, the 2019 world champion. He shared that their training group operates without the backing of major sponsors, which is unusual in the elite athletics world. Despite being a decorated coach, Rowberry does not have a contract with a brand like Nike and relies on Hassan’s support to sustain their operations.
The Ugandan athlete Nakaayi joined the group after seeking permission to train under Rowberry. However, as Rowberry explained, African athletes often face financial challenges and are underpaid compared to their Western counterparts. This disparity means Nakaayi can only afford a modest coaching fee. Rowberry emphasized that he is not in the profession for financial gain, explaining that while he earns enough to get by, his earnings are not substantial.
Athletes who wish to join Rowberry’s training group are typically required to pay a fee. However, Hassan’s contributions help bridge the gap, covering various training-related expenses. Her financial support has enabled the group to maintain high standards despite the lack of sponsorship or external funding.
Rowberry described his role as a coach as one of freedom and collaboration. Since his contract with Nike ended in 2020, he has worked as an independent coach, a transition that has its benefits. This independence allows him and Hassan to make decisions without needing approval from sponsors or other third parties. Rowberry expressed his appreciation for this flexibility, even as he acknowledged the financial difficulties that come with it.
He also reflected on his past relationship with Nike, expressing hope for future collaborations. He mentioned his willingness to coach more athletes if the opportunity arose, noting that he had approached Nike for potential trainees, though this has yet to yield results. Rowberry speculated that his lack of connections within the company might explain why no sponsorship deal has been offered, despite his experience and success.
While Rowberry appreciates the freedom of working independently, he admitted that securing a sponsorship deal could enhance the group’s operations. Financial support from a major brand like Nike could allow him to attract and train more athletes, expanding the group’s reach and potential. Nevertheless, he remains committed to his current setup, driven by the trust and partnership he shares with Hassan.
The unique dynamic between Rowberry and Hassan showcases the mutual respect and shared vision that underpins their success. Hassan’s generosity not only supports the team’s immediate needs but also underscores her commitment to the sport and her fellow athletes. Rowberry’s dedication to coaching, despite limited resources, highlights his passion for helping athletes achieve their full potential.
Together, they demonstrate how resourcefulness and collaboration can overcome the challenges of an unsponsored setup, achieving remarkable results on the global stage.
